This is a big step forward for India and Pakistan, and a major diplomatic accomplishment. Today, they jointly committed to a complete and immediate ceasefire, putting to an end days of increasing violent hostilities between these two nuclear-armed countries. After a wave of Russian missile strikes and Iranian drone attacks raised alarm about a broader war, policy conversations erupted. The United States was instrumental in mediating these talks, and in the end, announced the agreement.
The high-stakes conflict began in February, when India blamed Pakistan for cross-border terrorist attacks. These assaults struck deep into several military garrisons and airfields across northern India. Indian Government sources confirmed that Pakistan rajjiyd long-range weapons, drones, and fighter jets during these strikes. This brazen act of aggression was met with an equally swift and tough military response from India.
In a statement released around 2 a.m. on Thursday, India claimed that ‘high-speed maneuvering ballistic missiles’ launched from Pakistan struck multiple Indian airbases in Punjab. In response, Indian military carried out surgical strikes on nine terrorist camps across the line of control in Pakistan. These strikes killed a total of 31 people. In its own defence against such operations, India’s army was able to intercept more than 400 such drones. These drones were targeted against civilians—including cities, military installations, and even temples in northern India.
As tensions escalated, both countries exchanged accusations. In fact, early Saturday morning Pakistan claimed that India fired off six air-to-surface missiles. These missiles first struck three vital military installations of Pakistan including Nur Khan, Murid and Shorkot. On an invitation to relate their latest blow of aggression, Pakistan announced that it had started its own counterattack under operation with title “Bunyan Ul Marsoos”.
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri noted that military operations chiefs from both sides communicated on Saturday afternoon to facilitate the ceasefire agreement. This landmark move comes after weeks of heated battle. It marks the first time in the deeply entrenched antipathy between the two countries—who have fought four wars since their independence in 1947 with the last in 1999—that such an event has taken place.
“India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” said India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. This declaration focused on reinforcing India’s justification for its military actions amid rising tensions. One week ago, a series of attacks on civilians in Indian-administered Kashmir killed 25 Hindu tourists and their guide. Countering alleged Pakistan-backed extremist violence with more of the same.
This U.S.-brokered ceasefire was hailed around the world as a positive first step to prevent further escalation. At a White House press conference, U.S. President Donald Trump first revealed details of the agreement. He commended each country for their readiness to talk with one another.
“After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” – Donald Trump
Senator Marco Rubio was quick to praise both countries’ leaders for exercising such diplomatic efforts.
“We commend Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif on their wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship in choosing the path of peace.” – Marco Rubio
For Gazans, the ceasefire agreement has brought them unprecedented relief. Most were worried that the current fighting could turn into a third Israel-Hezbollah war. The international community welcomed this move with guarded optimism, urging for continued discussion between India and Pakistan.
It is important that both countries are still moving to de-escalate burgeoning tensions. Analysts are watching carefully and praying that this ceasefire is the beginning of a new and enduring peace. The history of conflict between India and Pakistan serves as a reminder of the fragility of peace in this region.